Application of information entropy in train operation adjustment decision-making

Abstract

Information entropy is a manifestation for the usefulness of information. The information entropy theory was used in the process of analyzing each object of the train operation adjustment decision table, and the function of each condition attribute for reducing decision-making uncertainty was studied. Then, the importance ranking of the train operation attributes were determined. A measure for train operation conflict degree is proposed on the bases of studying the train operation condition attributes' weight by information entropy. Meanwhile, the optimization sub-objectives' weight coefficient of train operation adjustment are determined. A single-object optimal model that is accordance with the decision-making procedure of the dispatchers is established. In this model, the sub-objectives of improving trains' punctuality rate and average travel speed, reducing total delay time are considered simultaneously. It has good adaptability and can provide reference to the dispatchers during train operation adjustment.